Dekrétum

Dekrétum (from Latin decretum, that which is decided) is a formal decree or edict issued by a sovereign, government, or religious authority. The term is used in several European languages to refer to documents that command or regulate conduct and have the force of law within a jurisdiction.

Historically, dekrétums were issued by ancient Roman emperors in imperial edicts, by medieval kings and princes in their chancelleries, and by bishops or popes in church governance. In canon law, decretum or decretal refers to official papal decrees; the collection known as Decretum Gratianum dates from the 12th century and helped systematize papal legislation.

In modern usage, dekrétum often denotes a formal executive order or administrative edict. In many Central and Eastern European languages, the term persists for decrees issued by governments, ministries, or church authorities. Depending on constitutional structures, decrees may have direct force of law, require publication, or be subject to later approval or repeal.

Formally, a dekrétum is usually a written document bearing the issuing authority's signature and seal, a stated scope, the legal basis, a date, and instructions for enforcement or compliance. It may address civil administration, taxation, public order, or ecclesiastical matters, among others.